Top 6 National Parks of South Korea

South Korea is a country where the love of nature is deeply ingrained in its culture. Locals are passionate about preserving the country’s natural landscapes and maintaining its vast network of walking trails. South Koreans often participate in outdoor activities such as hiking, which promotes physical well-being and strengthens their connection to the environment. This commitment is reflected in the well-maintained national parks across the country, where ancient temples, monasteries, and historic sites are seamlessly integrated into the natural scenery.

Here’s a closer look at some of South Korea’s most remarkable national parks:

Bukhansan National Park

Location: Near Seoul

Highlights: Bukhansan National Park is a natural haven just outside the bustling city of Seoul. The park is famous for its granite peaks, dense forests, and clear streams. It’s a popular destination for hikers, offering several well-marked trails that range from easy walks to challenging climbs. The park is home to historic temples such as Bukhansanseong Fortress and Heungguksa Temple, providing a blend of cultural and natural exploration.

Best Time to Visit: Autumn (September to November) is the best time to visit Bukhansan, as the fall foliage paints the park in vibrant colours, creating a picturesque setting for hiking.

Seoraksan National Park

Location: Near Sokcho, Gangwon Province

Highlights: Seoraksan National Park, one of Korea’s most iconic natural landscapes, is known for its dramatic rock formations, deep valleys, and lush forests. The park offers a variety of hiking trails, including the challenging Ulsanbawi Rock trail and the more accessible Biryong Falls trail. Visitors can explore the ancient Sinheungsa Temple, which houses one of Korea's largest bronze Buddha statues.

Best Time to Visit: Autumn is also ideal for Seoraksan, as the park is renowned for its spectacular fall colours. Spring (April to June) is another great time, with blooming flowers adding to the beauty of the landscape.

Hallasan National Park

Location: Jeju Island

Highlights: Hallasan National Park is centered around Hallasan Mountain, a shield volcano with the highest peak in South Korea. The park offers a unique hiking experience, with trails leading to the summit, where you can see the crater lake Baengnokdam. The Gwaneumsa and Seongpanak trails are popular routes for reaching the summit. The park also has diverse flora and fauna, including unique alpine plants.

Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn are the best seasons to hike Hallasan, as the weather is mild, and the views are stunning. Winter offers different beauty, with snow-covered landscapes, but the trails can be more challenging.

Mudeungsan National Park

Location: Near Gwangju, Jeollanam-do

Highlights: Mudeungsan National Park is known for its towering peaks, including Cheonwangbong, and unique columnar joint rock formations. The park offers a variety of hiking trails, with routes suitable for casual hikers and more experienced adventurers. The Jeungsimsa Temple, located within the park, is a peaceful retreat for those looking to experience traditional Korean Buddhist culture.

Best Time to Visit: Autumn is the most popular season, with the park’s foliage providing a colourful backdrop to the rugged landscape. Spring is also a beautiful time to visit, with wildflowers in bloom.

Jirisan National Park

Location: Spanning South Gyeongsang, North Jeolla, and South Jeolla provinces

Highlights: Jirisan National Park is the largest national park in South Korea and is home to the country’s second-highest peak, Cheonwangbong. The park is known for its diverse wildlife and extensive hiking trails, including the famous Jirisan Dulle-gil, a long-distance trail that circles the park. Historic sites such as Hwaeomsa Temple, one of the 10 Avatamsaka Temples, can also be found here.

Best Time to Visit: Jirisan is stunning year-round, but autumn offers the most breathtaking views with its vibrant fall foliage. Spring is also a popular time, especially during the cherry blossom season.

Gyeongju National Park

Location: Near Gyeongju, North Gyeongsang Province

Highlights: Gyeongju National Park is a natural reserve and a treasure trove of Korean history. Often referred to as a “museum without walls,” the park is home to numerous ancient sites, including the Bulguksa Temple and Seokguram Grotto, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The park offers several trails that take you through historical tombs, pagodas, and other relics of the Silla Dynasty.

Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn are ideal for exploring Gyeongju National Park. Spring brings cherry blossoms, while autumn offers mild weather and beautiful foliage.

South Korea’s national parks are not just destinations for outdoor enthusiasts but also vital to preserving the country’s natural and cultural heritage. Whether you’re seeking a challenging hike, a peaceful retreat, or a journey through history, these parks offer something for everyone. The local commitment to maintaining these spaces ensures that they remain pristine for future generations to enjoy.